There aren’t many properties in Los Angeles that predate the talkies. So Beaton House is a real find – no less beautiful than the day it was built 100 years ago, though it’s had plenty of work done.

Bryn Schneider of Compass recently listed the Spanish-Italian Revival house for sale at just under $2.99m despite the priceless provenance. Located just beneath the renowned Hollywood sign in Beachwood Canyon, it was one of the first completed homes (if not the first) in the historic Hollywoodland development, the first to illustrate the potential for luxury hillside living.

A template for New Mediterranean design in the 1920s, the five-bedroom house showcased stucco walls, terracotta roof tiles, pillars and wrought iron details – features still beloved today among aspirational Angelenos. A century of care and compassionate modernisation has improved the connection between indoors and out, decluttered the main-floor open plan and seen the addition of a chef’s kitchen of over 275 sq m. Fireplaces have been retrofitted with gas, and solar panels have been incorporated into the energy scheme.

New hardwood built-ins, arched windows, marble features and high-end tilework elevate the look of the expansive rooms, which now include a spa-like primary suite.

The location, near the Bronson Caves and Griffith Observatory, is not only conducive to fresh air and exercise, it’s still as exclusive and private as the original brief demanded.

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